Alton Towers Scarefest: Surviving the Dark Forest and Dark Hollow

Experience Alton Towers Scarefest in the Dark Forest with Edge of the Forest and Dark Hollow. Plan your spooky visit and book your tickets today!

As the nights draw in and the mist settles over the Staffordshire moorlands, the UK’s most iconic theme park undergoes a terrifying transformation. Scarefest is back, and for 2025, the energy is more electric than ever. While the entire resort gets a spooky makeover, there is one area that truly captures the eerie spirit of the season: the Dark Forest. Home to ancient legends and twisted metal, this section of the park becomes the epicentre of fear once the sun goes down.

The Best Alton Towers Scarefest Attractions for 2025

This year, the Dark Forest is more atmospheric than ever. The headline addition to the area's lineup is the terrifying scare zone, Edge of the Forest. This walkthrough experience blurs the lines between nature and nightmare as guests navigate a path haunted by those who have been 'consumed' by the woodland. If you haven't experienced the park in the dark yet, you really should plan your visit to witness the spectacular lighting and fog effects that turn familiar paths into unsettling labyrinths.

Surviving the Dark Hollow Scare Zone

Returning to the shadows is Dark Hollow, a fan-favourite area that has been revamped for the current season. Located near the stone arches, this zone features the 'Dark Forest folk' who emerge from the undergrowth to startle unsuspecting walkers. It’s the perfect blend of jump scares and world-building! For those who want to visit multiple times throughout the October season without breaking the bank, many regulars find that a Merlin Annual Pass is the best way to soak up every second of the spooky atmosphere across several nights.

How to Experience Alton Towers Rides in the Dark

There is nothing quite like a night ride on TH13TEEN or Rita. As the Dark Forest reaches peak spookiness, these coasters take on an entirely different personality. Plummeting into the world’s first vertical drop rollercoaster in total darkness is an experience that stays with you. To make sure you don't miss out on the late-night thrills, it's a great idea to book your tickets in advance, as Scarefest dates are incredibly popular and often sell out.

Top Tips for Alton Towers Annual Pass Holders

If you are one of the many annual pass holders heading to the Towers this month, remember to check your pass perks for discounts on the additional scare maze tickets. The mazes located near the Towers themselves, such as The Attic, complement the outdoor Dark Forest zones perfectly. Always start your evening in the Dark Forest just as dusk hits for the most immersive experience before the queues for the main mazes peak.